Petrov replaces Trulli at Caterham

The move comes as a shock to many, as Trulli – who has been with the team since it was founded in 2010 – had a year left on his contract.

Petrov, who lost his place at Lotus this year, has been known to carry plenty of sponsorship money, and together with two years of F1 experience, toppled the Italian off his seat at Caterham. This leaves the 37-year-old without a drive for this season.

Team principal Tony Fernandes praised Petrov joining the team:

"We are all delighted to welcome Vitaly into our team and are very excited about
the role he will play in helping us take the next steps forward in 2012 and for
many years to come.
When we first met it was immediately clear that Vitaly understands and shares our
vision for how we want our team to grow. As the first Russian to race in F1 he
carries the hopes of a huge nation with ease and his talents, experience with one
of our current competitors and insights on and off track will play a huge role in
our development as we fight to join the established teams ahead."